One driver killed in crash near UB; motorist in separate accident ‘critical’

by KEATON T. DEPRIEST Associate Editor

Amherst police are investigating two serious motor vehicle collisions that have occurred since Thursday, with one of the collisions resulting in the death of a town resident.

Capt. Patrick McKenna of the Amherst Police Traffic Bureau said a two-vehicle crash occurred at about 5:02 p.m. Thursday on Millersport Highway approximately one-quarter mile south of North Forest Road near the University at Buffalo’s North Campus.

He said Thomas Illuzzi, 88, of Amherst, was driving a 1999 Chevrolet the wrong way on Millersport and was killed when he struck a 2007 Chevrolet pickup driven by Francis J. Willett.

“Witnesses report a passenger car was driving north in the southbound lanes and collided with a pickup truck,” McKenna said.

McKenna said Willett was transported to Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital for observation. He said Getzville firefighters assisted police at the scene.

Senior Investigator Brian Walsh is leading the investigation, and any other witnesses to the crash are asked to call 689-1322.

In another matter, McKenna said a serious injury collision occurred at approximately 11:10 p.m. Sunday on Sweet Home Road near the intersection of Chestnut Ridge Road.

He said a 2007 Ford Freestyle traveling north on Sweet Home Road was struck in the passenger side by a 2004 Hyundai sedan that was traveling south on Sweet Home Road.

McKenna said the Ford was operated by William Kelleher, 40 of Amherst, while the Hyundai was driven by Faith Brunelle, 27, of Rochester.

He said Brunelle was transported to Erie County Medical Center where she underwent surgery for chest injuries and is listed in critical condition.

McKenna said Kelleher had a facial laceration but refused aid at the scene. North Bailey firefighters assisted officers at the scene.

He said anyone who may have witnessed the accident is asked to call 689-1311.